Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 1 July 2025
880. Deputy Conor D. McGuinness asked the Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science his Department’s plans to address the shortage of affordable student accommodation in Waterford; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [35966/25]
Amharc ar fhreagraA new Student Accommodation Strategy is currently in development and is due for completion later this year. The strategy is informed by comprehensive evidence gathered through the Technological Sector Student Accommodation Programme (TSSAP), a national initiative aimed at increasing the supply of student accommodation across Technological Universities (TUs). I recognise that TUs play a vital role in enhancing regional access to higher education and supporting balanced national development.
Stage 1 of TSSAP focused on strategic assessment, including a national supply and demand model. Institutions including South-East Technological University (SETU) Waterford submitted proposals exploring a range of delivery models, from purpose built accommodation and joint ventures to leasing and repurposing existing properties. These proposals were evaluated by the HEA and submitted to the Department for review.
The programme is now progressing through Stage 2, which involves the development of Preliminary Business Cases (PBCs). These include narratives, financial and economic models, and a multi-criteria analysis, in line with the Infrastructure Guidelines to ensure strategic alignment, feasibility, and value for money.
The Strategy will be underpinned by the findings of both the TSSAP and the Standardised Design Study, with the goal of establishing a clear and practical framework to support increased delivery of student accommodation.
Achieving long-term success will depend on strong public-private collaboration, leveraging innovative delivery models and financing mechanisms to provide cost-effective, high-quality accommodation for students across the country.
